DigiCert EV Code Signing vs Regular Code Signing: Which One Should You Choose?

When distributing software online, trust is everything. One of the easiest ways to earn that trust is to sign your applications with a Code Signing Certificate. This proves your software is authentic, comes from you (a verified publisher), and hasn’t been tampered with.

DigiCert, one of the world’s top Certificate Authorities (CAs), offers two main types of code signing certificates: Regular (Standard/OV) and EV (Extended Validation).

But which one do you really need? This guide explains the key differences between DigiCert Regular Code Signing and DigiCert EV Code Signing — including how each works, their pros and cons, and how to choose the right one for your business.

What is DigiCert Regular (Standard/OV) Code Signing?

A Regular Code Signing Certificate (also called Standard or Organization Validated – OV) is the most common option for individual developers and businesses.

When you buy a Regular DigiCert Code Signing Certificate:

• DigiCert verifies your organization’s legal identity.

• You receive a digital certificate file.

• You use this certificate to sign executables, scripts, apps, or installers.

• End-users see your verified publisher name instead of “Unknown Publisher.”

• The certificate proves the software hasn’t been modified since it was signed.

✅ Best For:

• Small to medium software vendors

• Signing desktop applications, scripts, macros, and mobile apps

• General-purpose distribution (Windows, MacOS, Java, Adobe AIR)

What is DigiCert EV (Extended Validation) Code Signing?

An EV Code Signing Certificate offers a higher level of validation and security. “EV” stands for Extended Validation — which means DigiCert performs a much stricter identity check.

Key features:

• DigiCert confirms your organization’s legal, physical, and operational existence.

• The certificate is stored on a hardware USB token, adding an extra layer of private key security.

• When you sign your software with EV, you gain instant Microsoft SmartScreen reputation, helping prevent “Unknown Publisher” or SmartScreen filter warnings on Windows.

✅ Best For:

• Large software publishers and enterprises

• Companies signing Windows kernel-mode drivers (Windows requires EV for driver signing)

• Anyone who wants maximum trust and SmartScreen reputation boost

Key Differences at a Glance

Benefits of Regular (OV) DigiCert Code Signing

✅ Quick and simple process
✅ No hardware token required — easier to store and use
✅ Perfect for everyday app/software signing
✅ Lower price point

Benefits of EV DigiCert Code Signing

✅ Required for Windows kernel-mode drivers
✅ Bypasses Microsoft SmartScreen filter instantly
✅ Extra trust factor — more secure supply chain
✅ Private key protection on hardware token prevents unauthorized signing
✅ Better suited for enterprise distribution or mass downloads

When Should You Choose Regular vs EV Code Signing?

👉 Choose Regular (OV) if:

• You’re an independent developer or small business.

• You’re signing regular software apps, installers, or scripts.

• You’re not distributing drivers or kernel-mode software.

• You want fast issuance and minimal fuss.

👉 Choose EV if:

• You’re a larger organization or established software publisher.

• You need to sign Windows drivers (Microsoft requires EV).

• You want to avoid Microsoft SmartScreen reputation delays.

• You need maximum private key security.

• You want to show the highest level of trust to end-users and partners.

Common Use Cases

Cost Comparison

• Regular DigiCert Code Signing: ~$400–$500 per year (varies by reseller and validity term)

• EV DigiCert Code Signing: ~$700–$900 per year (includes hardware token)

Note: EV includes the cost of shipping and managing the hardware token.

How Validation & Issuance Works

✅ Regular:

• Order online, submit basic business info.

• DigiCert checks official records or asks for simple documents.

• Validation call may be required.

• Download certificate file (.pfx/.p12).

✅ EV:

• Order online, submit full business details.

• DigiCert performs thorough checks — business registration, physical address, phone listing.

• Call back on a publicly verifiable phone number.

• Once approved, DigiCert ships the USB token.

• Certificate is stored only on that token.

Security Difference: Why EV’s Hardware Token Matters

For EV, the private key can’t be exported from the token — meaning:

• Even if hackers access your computer, they can’t steal the key.

• You must physically have the token plugged in to sign software.

• This aligns with strict security practices for Windows driver signing.

Final Verdict: Which Should You Pick?

✅ If you’re a developer signing everyday apps, scripts, or general software — Regular DigiCert Code Signing is enough.

✅ If you’re distributing Windows drivers, want an instant SmartScreen reputation boost, or need maximum private key security, invest in DigiCert EV Code Signing. It’s more expensive — but worth it for the peace of mind, trust, and reduced user friction.

Pro Tip: Timestamp Everything

No matter which you choose, always timestamp your signed code. This ensures your digital signature remains valid even after the certificate itself expires — so users won’t see expired certificate warnings.

Conclusion

Both Regular and EV Code Signing Certificates from DigiCert protect your users and your brand reputation — but they’re designed for different needs.

Summary:

• Regular: Cost-effective, quick to get, great for everyday signing.

• EV: Highest trust, required for drivers, hardware token security, SmartScreen boost.

Pick the one that matches your distribution goals — and always sign your software to protect your users!